In many parts of the world, May is the month when the nature explodes with green: the trees are full of leaves, the grass is growing faster than you can mow it and the danger of the last frost has past. Thus, it’s not surprising that a vibrant green stone is the birthstone for the month of May! The emerald gorgeously captures the color that dominates this month, making emerald jewelry the perfect piece for this life-filled time of year—or for any season in which you’re looking to bring a burst of life to your look.

The emerald is the most precious gemstone in the beryl family, and is related to the aquamarine. The rich green hue of emerald is a result of tiny amounts of chromium and vanadium; however, you don’t need to understand the chemical makeup of this stone to appreciate its striking beauty. The word emerald means “green gemstone,” a simple but fitting description of the defining feature of this gem.

This year the emerald is enjoying special honor as it’s the inspiration for and namesake of Pantone’s color of the year. This company, which produces professional color standards for the design industries, described this color as “a lively, radiant, lush green,” “radiant,” “jewel-toned” and “balanced yet sophisticated”—all attributes that make this gem a perfect pick for the season.

A Pantone press release aptly described the ability of the emerald to represent life and rebirth:

“Most often associated with brilliant, precious gemstones, the perception of Emerald is sophisticated and luxurious. Since antiquity, this luminous, magnificent hue has been the color of beauty and new life … It’s also the color of growth, renewal and prosperity—no other color conveys regeneration more than green.”

There are plenty of ways to wear this vibrant gemstone, and the wide range of emerald rings in Apples of Gold’s collection testifies to this stone’s versatility. If traditional styles catch your eye, you can opt for a traditional solitaire style or three stone ring, or try a glamorous adaptation of one of these styles such as the 14K White Gold Emerald and Diamond Regal Channel Ring. Like all emerald and diamond rings, this piece uses the contrast between rich green glimmer and the matchless colorless sparkle of diamonds to create a look that catches eyes in an instant. An oval-shaped emerald, 7mm high, is the star of this ring, and it’s accented by two round, prong-set diamonds and six smaller channel-set diamonds that glitter from the gleaming 14K white gold band.

The emerald is no newcomer to the world of gemstones. As far back as 3000 B.C. the Egyptians mined the emerald and this gem is mentioned several times in the Old Testament. It’s one of the four classic precious gemstones (along with the diamond, the sapphire and the ruby), and as such it’s a timelessly beautiful pick.

While an emerald probably isn’t the first stone that pops into you heard when you consider popping the question, it’s an excellent pick for representing a love that’s alive and that’s always growing. In addition, emerald engagement rings serve as pictures of lasting love because they feature a gemstone that never goes out of style.

The Vintage Style Emerald and Diamond Engagement Ring is a stunning example of the way that an emerald can provide the perfect colorful touch to styles inspired by the past. A 5mm round emerald sits in center of lavishly-adorned 14k white gold band, accented by 64 small diamonds that are arranged in glamorous fashion and offset by milgrain edges.

The timeless green glimmer of emerald makes this gemstone equally-suited for minimalistic modern styles such as the Tension Set Emerald Engagement Ring. This contemporary 14K white gold solitaire ring displays a 6.5mm round emerald in striking fashion as it holds this gemstone with a tension setting that hugs it from the top and bottom.

The enduring beauty of the emerald allows this stone to perform perfectly in styles from any era. Vintage looks are excellent ways to showcase the emerald, and this is demonstrated in striking fashion by the Enchanted Emerald Ring in 14K White Gold. This Victorian-inspired ring places a 4.5mm round emerald in the center of a meticulously-crafted motif of swirls and openwork. This eye-catching ring is also available with a coordinating wedding band as part of the Antique-Style Emerald Wedding Ring Set. Or, select the ring or the set in sterling silver; they’re just a glimpse of Apples of Gold’s collection of silver emerald rings.

A pop of green is also a flattering way to adorn your ears, making emerald earrings excellent accents. If you’d prefer a simple, classic look try the Emerald Stud Earrings in 14K White Gold. Each piece in this timeless pair holds a round emerald in your choice of size (4mm, 5mm or 6mm) in a timeless basket setting of 14K white gold. Similar studs are available in settings of 14K yellow gold or platinum; no matter which metal you choose, these earring make much-appreciated gifts or excellent additions to any jewelry collection.

If you’d rather a more contemporary look, don’t miss the Rough-Cut Oval Emerald Earrings in Sterling Silver. This pair dangles two 14mm-high rough-cut faceted emeralds from the wearer’s ears as they catch eyes from within frames of sterling silver. Fishhook-style posts make this an easy-on, easy-off style with plenty of cool personality.

An emerald pendant is an excellent way to brighten your face and add a splash of color to your look. The Emerald and Diamond Flower Pendant in 10K White Gold takes advantage of the emerald’s ability to represent new life. Five marquise-shaped emeralds work together to form the petals of a lively flower in this unique pendant, while a curving line of channel-set diamonds sweeps upward to form a bale that holds this piece to an 18” chain.

There’s no better time than the present to wear an emerald! Try an emerald ring, pendant or pair of earrings to showcase this month’s birthstone, the color of the year and a stunning splash of green sparkle.

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